CN107079347A - To the report WLAN terminal connection of 3GPP nodes - Google Patents

Abstract

A kind of WLAN WLAN node determines whether (1120) one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to WLAN, and whether node report (1130) one or more terminals into wide area cellular networks (such as 3GPP networks) have been coupled to WLAN.This report can be triggered for example when terminal has been coupled to WLA or by the completion for the connection procedure successfully or not successfully that the wireless terminal of one or predetermined number is carried out.Conditional report can be used to reduce the signaling amount between WLAN AP and 3GPP networks.

Description

To the report WLAN terminal connection of 3GPP nodes

Technical field

Techniques disclosed herein relates generally to cordless communication network, and relates more particularly to be used in wireless office Information is shared between domain net and cellular network to improve the technology of flow unloading.

Background technology

By the Evolved UMTS Terrestrial radio access network (E- of the membership criteriaization of the 3rd generation partner program (3GPP) UTRAN the base station of referred to as enhanced NodeB (eNB or eNodeB)) is included, they provide E-UTRA user planes and control towards UE Plane protocol terminations processed.ENB is interconnected amongst one another using X2 interface.ENB is also connected to EPC (evolved packet cores using S1 interfaces The heart), more specifically it is connected to MME (mobility management entity) by means of S1-MME interface and is connected by means of S1-U interface To gateway (S-GW).S1 interfaces support the many-to-many relationship between MME/S-GW and eNB.Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 provides E- The simplification view of UTRAN frameworks.

The trustships of eNB 110 such as RRM (RRM), radio bearer control, call access control, user plane data court To gateway header suppression, and/or user plane data towards the route of gateway etc function.MME 120 is Handle the control node of the signaling between UE and CN (core network).MME 120 notable function with via Non-Access Stratum (NAS) The connection management that agreement is disposed is relevant with bearer management.S-GW 130 is to be used for the ambulant anchor points of UE, and also includes it His function, interim DL (downlink) data buffering such as when UE is just paged, to correct eNB packet route and turns Send out, and/or for charging and the collection of the information of lawful intercept.PDN Gateway 140 (not shown in P-GW, Fig. 1) is responsible for UE IP address is distributed and service quality (QoS) implements the node of (as discussed further below).For the function of different nodes Further detail below, ask reader's reference 3GPP TS 36.300 and bibliography therein.

Fig. 2 gives the summary of the function of different nodes.For the details of the function of different nodes, reader's reference is asked to exist Available 3GPP documents " Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E- at www.3gpp.org UTRA)and Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network(E-UTRAN)；Overall Description；Stage 2, " 3GPP TS 36.300, v.11.3.0 (in September, 2012) and bibliography therein.In Fig. 2 In, logical node is depicted labeled as eNB 110, MME 120, S-GW 130 and P-GW 140 frame, they are in certain situation Under can correspond to separation and different physical location.The smaller frame of larger inframe depicts the functional entity of control plane.Mark The dash box for being designated as eNB 110 inframe depicts radio protocol layer.

As " Wi-Fi ", known WLAN (WLAN) technology is got the bid via IEEE in 802.11 series of canonical Standardization is (that is, such as " IEEE Standard for Information technology-Telecommunications and information exchange between systems.Local and metropolitan area networks— Specific requirements.Part 11:Wireless LAN Medium Access Control(MAC)and Physical Layer(PHY)Specifications”)。

Using Wi-Fi/WLAN (the two terms through is interchangeably used herein) from mobile network's relieving flowing volume from Just becoming from the point of view of the viewpoint of both operator and terminal temperature difference more and more interesting.The reason for this point, includes being obtained The other frequency obtained-by using the other 85MHz of Wi-Fi, the operator radio bandwidth that can be accessed in 2.4GHz frequency bands With 500MHz almost other in 5GHz frequency bands.Cost is another factor, because Wi-Fi uses free unlicensed frequency Rate.In addition, the cost of typical Wi-Fi access points (AP) is come from Capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operation expenditure (OPEX) visual angle See the cost considerably below 3GPP base stations (BS/eNB).

In addition, operator, which can utilize, has been deployed in focus (such as railway station, airport, stadiums, shopping center Deng) in deployment AP.Further, most of terminal temperature differences are currently also got used at residence (because residence broadband is subscribed to Typically flat rate) and there is at many public places the Wi-Fi of " free ".Another factor is that client is more and more The high data rate of ground requirement.Under low disturbed condition and user is assumed close to Wi-Fi AP, Wi-Fi, which can be provided, to be better than Current mobile network peak data rate (for example, for MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output) IEEE 802.11n dispose, 600Mbps is up in theory).

It is integrated to Wi-Fi or at least to this increased interest of more close cooperation between WLAN and cellular network again Another factor is, for the support of the rapid growth of the Wi-Fi between cell phone.Current commercially available many Portable set (almost including all smart phones) supports Wi-Fi.Note, in the specification for defining the Wi-Fi worlds, term " station " (STA) is used instead UE；Because herein in general manner be considered have support cellular technology (such as E-UTRA) and Both Wi-Fi equipment, so term UE, STA and terminal are used interchangeably herein.

Illustrate very simplified Wi-Fi frameworks in figs. 3 and 4 below.On the user plane illustrated in Fig. 3, adopt With the framework simplified very much, wherein UE/STA is connected to Wi-Fi access points (AP).Wi-Fi and then it can be directly connected to interconnection Net, therefore the UE/STA accesses to the application server on internet are provided.In control plane as illustrated in figure 4, access Base site controller (AC) can dispose AP management.One AC generally disposes some AP management.The security/authentication of user can be through Disposed by authentication, authorization, accounting (AAA) entity for the radius server being shown as in Fig. 4.Remote supervisory dials in use Family service (RADIUS) is the procotol (RFC 2865) for being most widely used for providing centralized AAA management.

Access network discovery and selection function (ANDFS) be from 3GPP define for UE provide access find information and The entity of mobility and routing policy.ANDFS is the new reality that 3GPP frameworks are added in 3GPP TS 23.402 issue 8 Body.(referring to " Architecture Enhancements for non-3GPP Accesses, " 3GPP TS 23.402, V.11.4.0 (in September, 2012), it can obtain at www.3gpp.org).Simplified ANDSF frameworks are depicted in Fig. 5.In such as figure Show, ANDSF servers are connected to UE, and its main target is to provide to connect to UE in the way of resource high-efficiency and safety Inbound information.Communication between UE and ANDSF servers is defined as the IP-based interface of referred to as S14 interfaces.

By supplying the information relevant with both available 3GPP access networks and non-3 GPP access network to UE, ANDSF makes The energy efficient mechanism of energy Network finding, wherein UE can avoid the background scans for continuing and consuming energy.Furthermore, ANDSF is to movement Operator provides a kind of instrument, and the instrument is used for the implementation that the flexible and efficient UE of access mechanism is manipulated, wherein strategy control System can guide UE to cross another RAN and select a specific RAN.

Road between ANDSF supplies information-discovery information of three types, inter-system mobility strategy (ISMP) and system By tactful (ISRP).All these objects (MO) managed via ANDSF are summarized and implemented, and ANDSF MO are pushed up via crossing (OTT) signaling channel (such as SOAP-XML message) is communicated to UE.

It was found that the relevant information of information availability from RATs different near UE to UE that provide.It is available that this helps UE to find Access network, including 3GPP access networks and non-3 GPP access network, the burden scanned without constant background.Inter-system mobility plan Slightly (ISMP) is to guide UE selections most desirable 3GPP or the strategy of non-3 GPP access.ISMP be used to once access single access The UE of net (for example, 3GPP or Wi-Fi).

The specified UE's that only one access network (3GPP, WLAN, WiMAX etc.) can be connected in preset time of ISMP information Behavior.However, if UE supports connection simultaneously to some access networks, operator can use the information of the 3rd type (ISRP) come increase RAN selection granularity.In this case, UE will be provided with specified services stream should be how by difference The strategy that RAN is distributed.For example, voice can be only permitted by 3GPP RAN connections to carry, and internet video stream and Best-Effort service can be route via WLAN.ANDSF is to mobile operator offers to determine how UE is connected to difference RAN instrument, and therefore allow them to add more flexibilities in their plan of operation.

As mentioned above, due to supporting the surge of the equipment of both with Wi-Fi and 3GPP mobile broadbands, so to Wi-Fi network relieving flowing volume is just becoming very interesting as viewed from the perspective of both user and operator.To and from Wi-Fi flow is manipulated compared with the manipulation between 3GPP networks or 3GPP- " close friend " network (such as CDMA2000 networks), it Between Main Differences be that usually terminal determines when it should select Wi-Fi access points (AP), and be in the wide area network net Network is responsible for network insertion decision-making.

Due to technology and historical reasons, Wi-Fi deployment scenarios are fundamentally different from cellular deployment in many cases.By In this reason, special consideration must be carried out when Wi-Fi is integrated into 3GPP networks.For example, using current existing technology, The relevant information of communication with the wireless terminal in a wireless network (such as Wi-Fi) is not easy in another wireless network Ground is available.If the communication of the wireless terminal in an another wireless network of wireless network positive control, this may be especially It is a problem.The A1 of international application published WO 2014/084792 describe a kind of method in mobile terminal, wherein terminal to The information of the connection state of the first wireless network transmissions mobile terminal relevant with second wireless network.Techniques described herein Therefore focus on and the Wi-Fi some aspects for being integrated into 3GPP networks (including are announced by WO 2014/084792 A1 and solved Problem), to realize the optimal manipulation of flow while terminal temperature difference performance and network performance is considered.

The content of the invention

In subsequent detailed disclosure, the mechanism between 3GPP RAN nodes and WLAN is defined.Further, UE with Mechanism between 3GPP RAN nodes and/or WLAN is also defined.These mechanism cause 3GPP RAN nodes it is possible to establish that (with Connection or idle pulley) it is associated with its terminal and is connected to WLAN.

The first aspect of inventive method and device detailed in this article be related to it is a kind of WLAN node (such as WLAN AP or Other WLAN nodes) the middle method implemented.Included according to the exemplary method of this aspect：Determining one or more wireless terminals is It is no to have been coupled to WLAN, and whether node into wide area cellular networks (such as 3GPP networks) report one or more terminals Have been coupled to WLAN.This report can be for example when terminal has been coupled to WLAN or by by one or predetermined number Wireless terminal carry out connection procedure successfully or not successfully completion and be triggered.It is possible tactile that other are also detailed is below Hair.Further, explain how conditional report can be used to reduce the signaling between WLAN AP and 3GPP networks Amount.

Second aspect is related to the side implemented in a kind of node (eNB in such as 3GPP networks) in wide area cellular networks Method.Included according to the exemplary method of this second aspect：Report is received from the node in WLAN, this report indicates one or more Whether wireless terminal has been coupled to WLAN.This method further comprises：In response to receiving report, in wireless terminal At least one wireless terminal takes action.This move can include for example discharging the connection between the node and wireless terminal, Or suppress to unload the trial of wireless terminal to WLAN.

The third aspect is related to a kind of in the wireless terminal for being adapted to operate in a wlan and in cellular networks Method.Included according to the exemplary method of this third aspect：The node in WLAN is connected to, and is sent to WLAN for nothing Cellular network node associated by line terminal or for the cellular network associated by wireless terminal or the mark for both Symbol.This identifier can be 3GPP cell IDs, for example, such as E-CGI.

Fourth aspect is related to a kind of device in WLAN uses.Fitted according to the exemplary device of this fourth aspect With to determine whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to WLAN, and the node into wide area cellular networks sends report Accuse, this report indicates whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to WLAN.

5th aspect is related to a kind of cellular network node device for using in cellular networks.According to this 5th side The exemplary device in face is adapted to be, and report is received from the node in WLAN WLAN, and this report indicates one or more nothings Whether line terminal has been coupled to WLAN.The exemplary device is further adapted in response to receiving report, on one or At least one wireless terminal in multiple wireless terminals takes action.

6th aspect is related to a kind of wireless terminal device for being adapted to operate in a wlan and in cellular networks. It is adapted to be according to the exemplary device of this 6th aspect, is connected to the node in WLAN, and send for wireless to WLAN Cellular network node associated by terminal or for the cellular network associated by wireless terminal or the identifier for both.

Embodiments of the invention are therefore including method and apparatus and corresponding computer program product as outlined above And computer-readable medium.In subsequent detailed description, these embodiments are described in detail.

Brief description of the drawings

Below with reference to the accompanying drawings the exemplary embodiment of technology introduced herein described, in the accompanying drawings：

Fig. 1 illustrates E-UTRA frameworks.

Fig. 2 illustrates the segmentation between E-UTRAN and EPC.

Fig. 3 illustrates simplified Wi-Fi user plane frameworks.

Fig. 4 illustrates simplified Wi-Fi control plane frameworks.

Fig. 5 illustrates ANDSF frameworks.

Fig. 6 shows the Evolved UMTS Terrestrial radio access network as a part for the communication system based on LTE (EUTRAN) example of framework.

Fig. 7 is the block diagram of the terminal device of some embodiments according to disclosed technology.

Fig. 8 is the block diagram of the radio access network nodes of some embodiments according to disclosed technology.

Fig. 9 is the block diagram of the WLAN access points according to some embodiments of disclosed technology.

Figure 10 be a diagram that the process flow diagram flow chart of some technologies in techniques described herein.

Figure 11 be a diagram that the process flow diagram flow chart of the exemplary method in WLAN node.

Figure 12 be a diagram that the process flow diagram flow chart of the exemplary method in cellular network node.

Figure 13 be a diagram that the process flow diagram flow chart of the exemplary method in wireless terminal.

Figure 14 be a diagram that the block diagram of the function view of the example endpoint in WLAN.

Figure 15 be a diagram that the block diagram of the function view of example cellular network node.

Figure 16 be a diagram that the block diagram of the function view of example wireless terminal.

Embodiment

Hair is described more fully below referring now to the accompanying drawing of the example for the embodiment for showing inventive concepts Bright property concept.However, these inventive concepts can be embodied by many multi-forms, and it should not be construed as being limited to Embodiment set forth herein.More properly, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thoroughly and complete, and And pass on the scope of inventive concepts completely to those skilled in the art.It shall also be noted that these embodiments are not mutual Repel.Component from one embodiment can acquiescently be assumed to be present in or be used in another embodiment.

As it is used herein, term " mobile terminal ", " wireless terminal ", " user equipment " or " UE " can be used to refer to In generation, receives data and any equipment to communication network transmission data from communication network, any equipment therein can be for example, Mobile phone (" honeycomb " phone), on knee/portable computer, pocket held computer, handheld computer, desk-top calculating Machine, machine to machine (M2M) or MTC types equipment, sensor with wireless communication interface etc..Any types in these types Equipment can be adapted to device-to-device (D2D) according to known technology and according to other technology disclosed herein Operation in pattern, wherein such operation can include transmitting and receive and (that is, be grasped in cellular network with equipment to base station Operation mode) operation when the corresponding signal that uses is similar or some signals of identical.

Cell in wide area cellular networks (such as LTE network) is associated with radio access network (RAN) node, wherein RAN Node is included in downlink (DL) to terminal device in a general sense launches radio signal and/or in up-link (UL) any node of radio signal is received in from terminal device.Some example RAN nodes or the art for describing RAN node Language be base station, eNodeB, eNB, NodeB, it is grand/micro-/slightly/nano-micro-radio base stations, family eNodeB (also referred to as femto Base station), relaying, directly put device, sensor, the radio node only launched or the radio node only received.RAN is saved Point can operate in one or more frequencies, carrier frequency or frequency band or at least perform measurement, and be able to can be carried Ripple polymerize.It can also be single radio access technology (RAT), many RAT or multi-standard node, for example, using identical or different Baseband circuitry be used for different RAT.

It should be noted that unless otherwise directed, the use of as used herein general terms " network node " refers to RAN sections Point, such as base station；eNodeB；It is responsible for the network node of resource management, such as radio network controller (RNC) in RAN；Core Network node, such as mobility management entity (MME) or SGW；Or WLAN access points (AP) or WLAN access controllers (AC).

Described signaling via direct link or logical links (for example, via higher level protocol and/or via one or Multiple network nodes).For example, the signaling from coordinator node can pass through another network node, for example, radio node.

Note, although from for Long Term Evolution (LTE；Also referred to as evolved universal terrestrial radio access network or E- UTRAN the term of specification) is used to illustrate the embodiment of inventive concepts in this is open, but this is not construed as The scope of technology disclosed at present is only limitted to these systems.It is designed in other wireless systems (including 3GPP LTE Systematic variants and follow-up and WCDMA (UMTS) system, WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access, WiMax), UMB are (super mobile wide Band), HSDPA (high-speed downlink packet access), GSM (global system for mobile communications), etc.) in the equipment that uses can also Benefit from the embodiment using invention disclosed herein concept.

In the discussion below, in order to which the purpose explained rather than limited elaborates the specific of the particular embodiment of the present invention Details.It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that other embodiment can depart from these details and be used.Further, In some instances, the detailed description of known method, node, interface, circuit and equipment is omitted, unnecessary so as not to utilize Details to describe this smudgy.It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that described function may be implemented within a section In point or in some nodes.Some or all of described function function can use ware circuit to implement, all Such as it is interconnected to perform simulation and/or discrete logic gates, ASIC, PLA of dedicated functions.Similarly, in function some or Repertoire can use software program and data together with one or more digital microprocessors or all-purpose computer to implement. The occasion that the node communicated using air interface is described, it will be apparent that those nodes also have suitable radio communication electricity Road system.Integrally it is embodied in any type of computer-readable memory in addition, this technology can be considered in addition, Include the non-transient embodiment of such as solid-state memory, disk or CD etc, it, which is included, will cause computing device herein The appropriate set of the computer instruction of described technology.

The present invention hardware embodiment can include or cover without limitation digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, Compacting instruction set processor, hardware (for example, numeral or simulation) circuit system (include but is not limited to (multiple) application specific integrated circuit ASIC and/or (multiple) on-site programmable gate array FPGA) and (in appropriate occasion) be able to carry out the state of this function Machine.

In terms of computer-implemented mode, computer be understood to include in general manner one or more processors and/or One or more controllers, and term computer, processor and controller can interchangeably be used.When by computer, When processor or controller offer, function can be by single special-purpose computer or processor or controller, by single shared calculating Machine or processor or controller or (some of which can be shared by multiple individual computers or processor or controller Or it is distributed) provide.In addition, term " processor " or " controller " are also refer to be able to carry out this function and/or held Other hardware of row software, all exemplary hardwares as documented above.

Fig. 6 shows the Evolved UMTS Terrestrial radio access network of the part as the communication system 2 based on LTE (EUTRAN) exemplary plot of framework.Node in core network 4 includes one or more mobility management entity (MME) 6, is used for The key control node of LTE access networks and one or more gateways (SGW) 8, it is while mobility anchor point is served as It route and forwards user data packets.They (are referred to as by the base station 10 in interface (for example, S1 interfaces) and RAN in LTE ENB or eNodeB) communication.

ENB 10 can include the eNB of identical or different classification, for example, grand eNB and/or micro-/slightly/femto eNB. ENB 10 is communicated with one another by interface (for example, X2 interface).S1 interfaces and X2 interface are defined in LTE standard.UE 12 can be from A base station in base station 10 receives down link data and is sent to uplink data, and the base station 10 is referred to as UE 12 serving BS.The access point (AP) 14 of the part as WLAN is also show in Fig. 6, it is to be understood that, WLAN and AP 14 be not a part for EUTRAN frameworks.As known in the art, UE 12 be able to can polymerize from single eNB 10 or Multiple eNB 10 multiple carrier waves, and can polymerize the carrier wave from LTE network 2 in certain embodiments with coming from WLAN AP 14 carrier wave.

In order to implement some embodiments in various embodiments described herein, communication path is based upon WLAN AP 14 and LTE network 2 in node 10 at least one node between, with allow special connection be based upon node it Between.This is shown as interface 16 in figure 6.It is readily apparent that, this connection generally will be built via WLAN AP 14 broadband connection It is vertical, rather than in the presence of direct (for example, air interface) signaling connection between AP 14 and eNB 10.Similar interface can be by Set up between an eNB 10 and multiple WLAN AP 14.It will be understood that being in some eNB 10 overlay area in AP 14 Interior occasion, AP 14 can have each separate interface 16 led in those eNB 10.

Node can use end-to-end interface to the node interface 16 between 10,14, i.e. be directly connected to two nodes Interface.Alternatively, node interface can connect two nodes while by other network nodes.

Fig. 7, which is shown, can be adapted to implement in one or more of examples described herein embodiment example The terminal device 12 or user equipment (UE) used in example.Terminal device 12 includes the processing list of the operation of control terminal equipment 12 Member 30.Processing unit 30 is connected to receiver or transceiver 32 with associated (multiple) antenna 34, and (it includes receiver And transmitter), antenna 34 is used to (that is, wirelessly be electrically accessed skill according to different from two distinct types of radio access network The access point AP 14 in RAN node 10 and WLAN in two radio access networks of art RAT operations, such as LTE network 2) connect Collect mail number, or not only to two distinct types of wireless access network transmission signal and but also receive from it signal.Terminal device 12 Also include memory cell 36, it is connected to processing unit 30 and it stores computer program code and terminal device 12 Operation required other information and data.Processing unit 30 and memory cell 36 can be referred to as process circuit together.

Fig. 8, which is shown in some example embodiments that can be adapted in examples described herein embodiment, to be made RAN node 10 (for example, base station, NodeB or eNodeB).RAN node 10 includes the processing list of the operation of control base station 10 Member 40.Processing unit 40 is connected to transmitter or transceiver 42 with associated (multiple) antenna 44, and (it includes receiver And transmitter), antenna 44 is used to the transmission signal of terminal device 12 into network 2 and receives from it signal.RAN node 10 Also include memory cell 46, it is connected to processing unit 40 and it stores computer program code and RAN node 10 Operation required other information and data.Processing unit 60 and memory cell 66 can be referred to as process circuit together.RAN Node 10 also includes the component for being used to allow RAN node 10 (for example, via X2 interface) to exchange information with other RAN nodes 10 And/or circuit system 48 and for allowing the node switching in RAN node 10 (for example, via S1 interfaces) and core network 4 The component and/or circuit system 49 of information.Be readily apparent that, in other kinds of network (for example, wideband code division multiple access WCDMA RAN) in the RAN node that uses by including the similar component of those components with being shown in Fig. 3 and for enable with Other network nodes in the network of these types are (for example, in other base stations, mobile management node, and/or core network Node) communication appropriate interface circuitry 48,49.

Fig. 9 shows the WLAN AP 14 that can be used in described example embodiment.AP 14 includes control AP The processing unit 60 of 14 operation.Processing unit 60 is connected to transmitter or transceiver with associated (multiple) antenna 64 62 (it includes receiver and transmitter), antenna 64 is used to the transmission signal of terminal device 12 and receives from it signal.AP 14 also include memory cell 66, and it is connected to processing unit 60 and it stores computer program code and AP 14 behaviour Make required other information and data.Processing unit 60 and memory cell 66 can be referred to as process circuit together.AP 14 Also include being used to AP 14 being connected to telephone line or the component and/or circuit system 68 of other broadband connections.

Be readily apparent that, illustrate only in Fig. 7, Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 explain set forth herein embodiment required by terminal device 12, The component of RAN node 10 and AP 14.

3GPP is the currently assigned mechanism manipulated for the access selection between 3GPP networks and WLAN and/or flow.This A little mechanism are described in the v12.2.0 of 3GPP document 3GPP TS 36.300 (in June, 2014), and the document is in http:// It can obtain at www.3gpp.org.More particularly, the chapters and sections 23.6.1 and 23.6.2 of this 3GPP document provide this mechanism Simplify description.

What access network selection and flow manipulated rule is described in more detail in 3GPP TS 36.304, v.12.2.0 (2014 9 Month) chapters and sections 5.6 in be provided, the document is also in http:It can obtain at //www.3gpp.org.

Using the flow manipulating mechanism described in above mentioned 3GPP documents, 3GPP RAN active influences (and one Determine positive control in degree) access network selection and/or flow manipulation decision-making of the terminal between 3GPP and WLAN.

However, 3GPP radio access networks (RAN) have with whether terminal positive selection and/or manipulates and go to WLAN flow Relevant limited information.Using this limited information, 3GPP RAN will can not take notified provided for radio resources management (RRM) Decision-making.For example, 3GPP RAN may can not provide suitable threshold value-this can due to this missing of knowledge to wireless terminal The access selection and/or flow that difference can be caused manipulate decision-making, and this and then may cause the Consumer's Experience of difference.Further, 3GPP RAN may be unaware that whether the connection between 3GPP RAN and wireless terminal can be released.

In order to solve these problems, the 3GPP RAN nodes (for example, eNB) discussed further below that define are between WLAN Mechanism between mechanism and UE and 3GPP RAN nodes and/or WLAN.As proved below, these mechanism cause 3GPP RAN node is it is possible to establish that (with connection or idle pulley) is associated with its wireless terminal and is connected to WLAN.

In some embodiments according to the first mechanism, WLAN node (such as WLAN AP or other WLAN nodes) to Whether the one or more wireless terminals of 3GPP network-reportings have been coupled to WLAN.This report for example can be in wireless terminal Triggered through being connected to during WLAN.Other possible triggerings are also detailed is below.Further, how conditional report is explained It can be used to reduce the signaling amount between WLAN AP and 3GPP networks.

In some embodiments according to the second mechanism, terminal reports 3GPP cell IDs (for example, E-CGI) to WLAN, Make it which 3GPP RAN node WLAN can be associated with identified wireless terminal.Except for such a point, wireless terminal is also To WLAN and/or 3GPP RAN nodes report UE marks its can be associated with to enable 3GPP RAN nodes to recognize Which UE (being moved in connection mode or in the recent period the free time) passes through WLAN and launched.

Using these technologies, 3GPP network nodes are given whether and when to be connected to WLAN with wireless terminal relevant Information.This information can be used for taking more appropriate provided for radio resources management (RRM) decision-making by 3GPP networks, for example, it Can cause enhanced systematic function and/or Consumer's Experience etc..Such as, by adjusting the disposal to wireless terminal, such as lead to Overregulate wireless terminal of interest and/or the parameter setting of other wireless terminals, it is possible to achieve improved systematic function.It is also Mobile radio terminal is (for example, determining between different conditions/pattern in 3GPP networks can be used to for example decide whether When whether wireless terminal being moved into IDLE patterns).

As mentioned above, according to present scheme (those mechanism as described above), 3GPP RAN can control/shadow Ring when and how terminal is connected to WLAN.However, according to existing embodiment, whether 3GPP RAN are unaware of wireless terminal WLAN is connected to, and does not therefore know whether the unloading to WLAN succeeds.Without this knowledge, 3GPP RAN perhaps can not be with Suitable mode carrys out arrange parameter, and result is that the parameter setting in future will not be optimal, and therefore will reduce systematic function With terminal temperature difference experience.Techniques described herein also allows parameter setting procedure to be modified in addition to other things.

More particularly, according to some embodiments of technology disclosed at present, WLAN access points (AP) or other WLAN sections Point is reported to 3GPP RAN nodes：The one or more terminals associated with 3GPP RAN have been coupled to WLAN AP.WLAN is saved Whether and/or when point should provide this report to 3GPP RAN nodes to be configured by 3GPP RAN nodes.

It should be noted that subsequent description and/or accompanying drawing can indicate WLAN AP, especially forward direction 3GPP RAN nodes are carried out Report.It is to be appreciated, however, that may not be that WLAN AP perform report in some embodiments or example.Alternatively, Ke Yishi Some other WLAN node, such as WLAN access controllers (AC).

3GPP RAN nodes can be in the connection between disposal 3GPP RAN nodes and wireless terminal or multiple wireless terminals The information that Shi Liyong is received from WLAN node.If for example, warp-wise 3GPP RAN nodes indicate that wireless terminal successfully connects WLAN AP are connected to, then 3GPP RAN nodes can discharge the connection between 3GPP RAN and wireless terminal.

It is readily apparent that, " being connected to " WLAN can mean the presence institute example by one or more of following condition condition Anything in some different things shown：

802.11 certifications (certification to WLAN AP) have been done or underway；

802.1x EAP-SIM certifications (certification to aaa server) have been done or underway；

Four roads between wireless terminal and WLAN, which are shaken hands, to be done；

IP address has been assigned to the wireless terminal in WLAN；

Public data network (PDN) connection is established by WLAN, i.e. between wireless terminal and PDN Gateway Connection has been set up；

Data traffic is started by WLAN.

WLAN AP can be it is connected to based on some triggerings to 3GPP RAN nodes report wireless terminal.Below, Describe the set of example triggering.Note, in various embodiments or example, can apply one or several in following triggering Triggering.

1. connection procedure is completed

According to this triggering, WLAN AP will trigger report when wireless terminal has completed connection procedure.

WLAN AP can send to 3GPP RAN nodes when successfully completing connection procedure and report.It means that for example, Wireless terminal has completed one or more of connection procedure described in list provided above.3GPP RAN nodes are known It is beneficial that road wireless terminal, which is successfully completed WLAN connections, because this can indicate that wireless terminal now can be by WLAN AP is serviced and 3GPP RAN nodes can discharge and lead to the connection of wireless terminal, and vacates the money in 3GPP RAN nodes Source.

In some embodiments or example, the connection procedure being not successfully completed is reported.WLAN AP may be due to many not The connection for refusing wireless terminal with any reason in reason is attempted, for example, because the load on WLAN AP is too high.Wirelessly Terminal has attempted to connection but can also be unsuccessfully useful information to 3GPP RAN nodes.If for example, some WLAN AP is just In refusal wireless terminal, then in other-end also by under the hypothesis being rejected, 3GPP RAN nodes can suppress to attempt other nothings Line terminal is to some period of any unloading of the WLAN AP.By avoiding further unloading from attempting, network letter in addition Make, power consumption of terminal etc. can be avoided by.

2. the request received from 3GPP nodes

3GPP RAN nodes can inquire one or more wireless ends by sending request to WLAN AP to WLAN AP Whether end has been coupled to WLAN AP.The request can be with any terminal (for example, during nearest time T) whether The general request relevant through being connected to WLAN AP.

Time T need not be clearly instructed in the request, although it can clearly be instructed in certain embodiments, But alternatively can have been calculated since last time inquires.If for example, 3GPP RAN nodes time T1 and Time T2 inquire WLAN AP, then inquiry when WLAN AP in certain embodiments will be in response to time T2, and indicate when Between those terminals for having been connected between T1 and time T2.This method ensure when 3GPP RAN nodes inquire WLAN AP when, it The instruction of all wireless terminals connected since last time inquires will be received, thereby, it is ensured that 3GPP RAN nodes have The relevant complete information of connection with leading to WLAN AP.Certainly, in the first inquiry received from specific RAN node, it will not deposit In time T1；In this case, WLAN AP can apply default time T1, for example, T1 is arranged to T2-Tdef, wherein Tdef is arranged to fixed value, and it can specify in specification, be provided, determined by WLAN AP by 3GPP RAN nodes, etc..

In certain embodiments, 3GPP RAN nodes include time T in inquiry request, and this allows 3GPP RAN nodes to determine Be scheduled on gone back on the time how far its interesting connection for knowing completion.If for example, 3GPP RAN nodes time T3 attempt to WLAN discharging terminals, then whether the possible particular terminal interested of 3GPP RAN nodes is connected to WLAN, but may lose interest in Whether terminal has been coupled to WLAN before a time t 3；Therefore, 3GPP RAN nodes can inquire WLAN AP, to determine certainly Whether any terminal has been coupled to WLAN AP since the time T3.This allows between reduction WLAN and 3GPP RAN nodes Signaling amount, because the connection being had occurred and that before T3 is attempted to be omitted, so as to reduce signaling consumption.

3. regular reporting

In certain embodiments, whether WLAN can have been coupled to 3GPP RAN node regular reporting wireless terminals WLAN.WLAN AP can for example maintain timer T, and when this timer T expires, WLAN AP are triggered to 3GPP RAN The report of node and restart timer.

Timer value can be determined by WLAN AP its owns.However, in certain embodiments, timer value can be by 3GPP RAN nodes are configured.In these embodiments, 3GPP RAN nodes can assess it is many frequently need information (for example, Every ten seconds are once), and then by WLAN AP be configured to the desired cycle to 3GPP RAN nodes send report.

Regular reporting is a kind of straightforward procedure, and it does not require a large amount of signalings (for example, with requiring 3GPP node request reports Triggering based on request is compared), and utilize with whether terminal has been coupled to the relevant information of WLAN AP to keep 3GPP simultaneously RAN node is newest.

4. the UE connected number

In certain embodiments, WLAN can be connected to its end to the report of 3GPP RAN nodes since last report Hold when number exceedes some configurable threshold value.If will be reported since last time for example, this threshold value is arranged to five, WLAN When five terminals it is connected to since report.

In certain embodiments, WLAN AP will may be needed before report includes particular terminal meet one or Multiple conditions.The set of example condition is provided below.

1. support 3GPP wireless terminal

Not all equipment all supports 3GPP to connect.For example, smart phone generally supports both 3GPP RAT and WLAN, And for example some tablet devices may only support WLAN.When WLAN node notifies that connection is attempted to 3GPP RAN nodes, the report Accusing includes indicating that the information that non-3 gpp equipment has completed connection trial is probably nonsensical.

Therefore, WLAN AP can consider when deciding whether and including wireless terminal in report in certain embodiments Its 3GPP concatenation abilities.WLAN AP can only include the wireless terminal being connected with known support 3GPP in these embodiments Relevant information.This information can be caught known to WLAN node from wireless terminal, i.e. wireless terminal will be to progress Whether the WLAN node (or to and then can notify another WLAN node for the WLAN node reported) of report indicates it Support 3GPP connections.Alternatively, this can come from the other information (such as UE marks) that can be mapped to equipment/terminal type Infer.

2. 3GPP network connection status

WLAN AP (or other WLAN nodes) are determining whether to can contemplate wireless end when report includes wireless terminal Hold the connection state of 3GPP networks.If for example, wireless terminal has the flexible connection to 3GPP networks (for example, in LTE CELL_DCK/CELL_FACH/CELL_PCH in RRC CONNECTED, UMTS, etc.), then 3GPP networks can be used specially Wireless terminal is controlled with signaling.In those situations, then, 3GPP RAN recognize that particular wireless station has been coupled to WLAN is probably more meaningful.On the other hand, if wireless terminal is in IDLE state, then do not support special letter in 3GPP Order, and 3GPP RAN are unaware that presence of the wireless terminal in 3GPP cells.Therefore, with the activity to 3GPP networks The wireless terminal of connection is compared, and 3GPP RAN are notified in IDLE state and have been coupled to WLAN those wireless terminals May be more nonsensical.

Therefore, WLAN AP can be indicated only in 3GPP connection status to 3GPP RAN nodes in certain embodiments When wireless terminal has been coupled to WLAN AP, but does not include in report relevant with the wireless terminal in IDLE state Information.

If being in which state for example, wireless terminal depends on wireless terminal and optionally being provided to WLAN AP The instruction of 3GPP network identities (such as 3GPP cell ID), then this can be implemented.Such as, wireless terminal is in certain embodiments Only in the case where wireless terminal is in connection status, rather than when in IDLE state 3GPP can be indicated to WLAN AP Network identity.In this case, whether WLAN AP can indicate 3GPP network identities depending on wireless terminal and impliedly know Which state road wireless terminal is in.By it is also possible that wireless terminal explicitly indicates its 3GPP shapes to WLAN AP State, and then WLAN AP will clearly know state of the wireless terminal in 3GPP domains.

3. the request from wireless terminal

In certain embodiments, wireless terminal can ask WLAN to indicate that wireless terminal has been connected to 3GPP RAN nodes To WLAN.Wireless terminal can be during the connection to WLAN node to WLAN node instruction this point.

Wireless terminal can determine whether request based on its configuration set up by the signaling from 3GPP networks WLAN includes it in report.In this case, then 3GPP networks may decide that wireless terminal still should should not Wlan network is asked to include it in report.The knowledge pair of 3GPP network identities (such as cell/eNB ID) determines that report must It will be useful that what specific node beard and hair, which gives,.

4.PLMN

WLAN AP in some embodiments or example can only wireless terminal be associated or be connected to PLMN (or One of some PLMN) in the case of PLMN one of (or some PLMN) identical of 3GPP RAN nodes for being sent to report Report includes wireless terminal.

For example, wireless terminal can indicate that wireless terminal is associated during the connection procedure with WLAN to WLAN AP Or (multiple) PLMN being connected to.WLAN AP can know 3GPP based on configuration or by the instruction of 3GPP RAN nodes (multiple) PLMN of RAN node.

Only include the benefit of the relevant information of wireless terminal of PLMN with belonging to from 3GPP RAN nodes in report It is that 3GPP network nodes are not to be necessarily required to know that the wireless terminal from another PLMN has been coupled to WLAN.If for example, Operator X possesses 3GPP RAN X and operator Y possesses 3GPP RAN Y, then 3GPP RAN X only interested may belong to Whether whether operator X terminal is presently connected to WLAN AP, and lose interest in and belong to operator Y terminal and be presently connected to WLAN AP。

The reason for 5.WLAN is connected

In certain embodiments, WLAN AP can contemplate wireless when determining whether and including wireless terminal in report The reason for terminal is connected to WLAN.This can be beneficial, because wireless terminal may be due to any in some different reasons Reason and be connected to WLAN AP.RAN is interesting to know that the reason whether wireless terminal is connected to WLAN is, when wireless whole Hold due to RAN control/influence mechanism (for example, due to such as unloading mechanism described in background section) and be connected to WLAN When.In contradistinction to, if wireless terminal is based on user preference and is connected to WLAN AP (that is, terminal temperature difference pressures/request is wireless Terminal is connected to WLAN AP), then 3GPP RAN not interested may know that wireless terminal has been connected, because 3GPP RAN It is not triggering of the terminal to WLAN AP connection.

In order to enable this triggering, the reason for WLAN AP need to know the connection with WLAN AP.This can be by wireless Terminal provides to WLAN AP during or after connection procedure and indicates to realize.It is also possible that WLAN AP pass through it is wireless The type for the connection that terminal is being set up in WLAN domains and impliedly know reason.If for example, terminal passes through WLAN Set up S2a/S2b/S2c connections, then WLAN AP can assume that wireless terminal due to operator control/influence (that is, RAN control/influence) mechanism and be connected to WLAN AP.Further, wireless terminal can be configured as, such as Fruit wireless terminal controlled based on operator/influence mechanism and be connected to WLAN, then to WLAN AP indicate (directly or warp By another node, such as WLAN AC) 3GPP RAN nodes mark, but be configured as in wireless terminal because such as end is used Family does not provide such instruction when triggering and being connected to WLAN AP.Then WLAN AP can impliedly know, if 3GPP RAN node mark be provided, then wireless terminal be due to operator control/influence mechanism and connect.

Any information element in some possible information elements can be included in from WLAN node to 3GPP nodes and send out In the report sent.

The following is the list of example.

1. wireless device identifier

In certain embodiments, WLAN AP can notify the mark for wireless terminal to 3GPP RAN.This can allow 3GPP RAN do not just know that wireless terminal has been coupled to WLAN, it is furthermore well known which wireless terminal has been connected.It is possible Mark includes 3GPP C-RNTI, IMSI, WLAN MAC, IP address, for 3GPP terminals and the shared identifier of WLAN entities.

General identifications can also or be alternatively included in report.This mark can be carried by 3GPP RAN nodes For for example, warp-wise wireless terminal indicates general identifications to 3GPP RAN nodes, and wireless terminal is (for example, in the connection procedure phase Between) indicate this point to WLAN AP instruction this point and WLAN AP and then to 3GPP RAN.The benefit of general identifications is, it Can be specific for terminal and no matter the state of wireless terminal in 3 gpp how and be still applicable, such as C- RNTI may not be such, because C-RNTI is specific for terminal in 3GPP cells, but wireless terminal from CONNECTED is released when being moved to IDLE patterns and is not therefore applicable in IDLE patterns.

2. network identity

In certain embodiments, WLAN AP can include the mark related to wlan network in report.In 3GPP RAN In the case that node not yet recognizes that report comes wherefrom (that is, which WLAN AP reports comes from), then including wlan network mark Knowledge can help 3GPP RAN to know which WLAN AP reports comes from, and and so knows which wireless terminal has been coupled to WLAN AP。

In certain embodiments, WLAN can also be provided to 3GPP RAN nodes wireless terminal and which PLMN and/or The associated instruction of 3GPP cells.The information related to having been coupled to WLAN all wireless terminals is provided in WLAN node In the case of, i.e. if WLAN is not filtered out and had to the report of 3GPP RAN nodes with being associated with the wireless terminal of specific RAN node The information of pass, then this can be useful.In this case, 3GPP RAN nodes, which may need to filter out, is associated with the wireless of it Terminal.For example, it is contemplated that WLAN node sends identical information to all 3GPP RAN nodes, i.e. the institute with being connected to WLAN node There is the related information of wireless terminal, then 3GPP RAN nodes may be only interested with being associated with 3GPP RAN node its owns The related information of wireless terminal, but the information related to being associated with the terminal of other 3GPP RAN nodes of loseing interest in, thus it is logical PLMN the and/or 3GPP cells associated by 3GPP RAN nodes instruction wireless terminal are crossed, 3GPP RAN nodes will be allowed to carry out Filtering.

3. the time of connection

Report can include the time when wireless terminal connects.In some time being reported in after terminal has been connected In the case of sending, this is beneficial.The time reported can be by the form of absolute time (for example, 13:41:17).

4. the type of connection

WLAN AP in certain embodiments can to 3GPP RAN indicate wireless terminal with it is which type of connect into Row connection.Wireless terminal can use such as S2a/S2b/S2b connections or non-seamless WLAN to unload (NSWO) and be connected to WLAN AP.This information is known for 3GPP RAN are probably valuable, because it allows 3GPP RAN to determine terminal The influence that manipulation returns to 3GPP would is that anything.For example, it may be possible to wireless terminal is manipulated to from WLAN using S2a connections 3GPP, the interruption in connection without causing wireless terminal.If however, NSWO connections are manipulated, as a result, wireless Terminal may need to change IP address and have and interrupt.

5. connection state

As mentioned above, the anything in some different things can be meant by leading to WLAN " connection ", such as be recognized Card has been carried out, and data traffic has begun to flowing, etc..Therefore, WLAN AP can perform assorted including instruction user The Optional Field of " connection " of type.The abnormal conditions that this other information is not done appropriately mainly for disposal unloading It is useful.

It is readily apparent that, in view of some technologies described above, some modifications to UE behaviors are probably necessary or desired , to promote these technologies.For example, some reports in report described above are transmitted to 3GPP RAN nodes for WLAN, WLAN may need to know which 3GPP cell UE is associated with some embodiments.Therefore, in certain embodiments, UE It is adapted to be for example during any step of WLAN association/authentications to WLAN report 3GPP cell IDs (for example, E-CGI).

Similarly, in order to which 3GPP nodes can recognize that report is associated with which UE, wireless device identifier should be in report In and be cognizable at 3GPP RAN nodes.Therefore, in certain embodiments, UE is in any of certification/association process Its 3GPP marks and any other relevant information (PLMN, 3GPP cell ID etc.) is sent during step to WLAN.In the early time The report of description will include this mark, and which UE is 3GPP RAN nodes can recognize to the WLAN for sending report AP is transmitted.

In other embodiments, its WLAN marks are reported during any step that the dedicated radio links of UE in 3 gpp are set up Know (for example, WLAN MAC Address), and 3GPP RAN nodes then can be context-sensitive with UE by WLAN marks.At this In the case of, it can include (after WLAN associations in AP available) WLAN MAC from the reports of WLAN to 3GPP RAN nodes Address, hereafter 3GPP RAN nodes can fetch UE contexts and recognize the UE that is being transmitted by WLAN.

In more other embodiments, share mark and reported in two systems and be associated with the UE in 3GPP Context, so that when the report of the RAN node from WLAN to 3GPP is received, eNB can fetch UE contexts and recognize UE。

Figure 10 is to show that some mechanism in mechanism described herein are used in an example of technology therein The flow chart of embodiment.As seen at frame 1005,3GPP RAN triggerings UE is connected to WLAN.As response, such as in frame Shown at 1010, wireless terminal is initiated WLAN connections and attempted.Frame 1040 is jumped to forward, it can be seen that WLAN AP build report Accuse, including WLAN connection types and the 3GPP ID for wireless terminal.As seen at frame 1045, report is sent to 3GPP networks.As shown at frame 1050,3GPP network nodes, which are received, reports and discharges terminal.

Figure 10 illustrates during, the transmission of the report shown in frame 1045 is using a number of factors as condition.First, such as Shown at frame 1015, WLAN AP only are configured to report to WLAN AP and connected by WLAN AP in 3GPP RAN nodes In the case of send report.As seen at frame 1020, in illustrated technology, report has only been successfully connected in terminal To being sent in the case of WLAN.Then, as shown at frame 1025, in illustrated process flow, WLAN AP only ring Clear requests of the Ying Yu from 3GPP RAN and send report.Further, as seen at frame 1030, particular wireless station Report only sent in the case where wireless terminal and 3GPP RAN nodes are associated (that is, belonging to PLMN).Finally, such as in frame Shown at 1035, the report for wireless terminal is only sent in the case where wireless terminal there are 3GPP abilities.It is readily apparent that, schemes Any or all operation set in condition/filter operation shown in 10 process flow can be saved in certain embodiments Slightly.

As detailed example from the description above can see, in technique described herein and some embodiments of device In, based on one or more of some different triggerings triggering, WLAN node is to 3GPP network nodes instruction terminal (or multiple ends End) have been coupled to WLAN AP.Further, in certain embodiments, some conditions are provided, they allow WLAN AP from 3GPP networks are omitted in report may uninterested some terminals.

Give above-mentioned detailed example, it should be apparent that these technologies can more generally be employed.Such as, Figure 11 be a diagram that The exemplary method according to technology described above implemented such as in WLAN node (such as, in WLAN AP or WLAN AC) Process flow diagram flow chart.

As shown at frame 1120, this method includes：Determine whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to WLAN.As shown at frame 1140, this method further comprises：Node into wide area cellular networks sends report, this report Indicate whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to WLAN.

In certain embodiments, the transmission of report is in response to detecting the generation of trigger event.This frame 1110 in Figure 11 Place shows that it is illustrated to indicate that it need not appear in each reality of the example of illustrated process flow using dotted outline Apply in example.Trigger event can include for example following one or more：By a wireless terminal or the wireless end by predetermined number Hold the completion of the connection procedure carried out；The request of node in cellular network；And periodic reporting interval expires.

In certain embodiments, this method further comprises：Based on one or more conditions specific to terminal, and determine Whether each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals is included in report.This shows that it is also sharp at frame 1130 It is illustrated to indicate that it need not be appeared in each embodiment of the example of illustrated process flow with dotted outline.These Condition specific to terminal can include below for example one or more：Whether wireless terminal supports the connection with cellular network； The connection state with cellular network for wireless terminal；Whether wireless terminal, which has requested that, is included in report；With it is wireless The corresponding network identity of cellular network that terminal is connected to；And wireless terminal the connection with WLAN the reason for.

In certain embodiments, report further indicates that one or more wireless terminals not yet successful attempt to be connected to WLAN.In in these some and in other embodiments, report is included following one or more：For in wireless terminal The terminal iidentification of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals；Identifier for WLAN and/or WLAN node； For the corresponding with the cellular network that wireless terminal is connected to of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Network identity；It is used for the cellular network associated by wireless terminal for each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals The cellular network node identifier of node；For each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals by wireless terminal to The time of WLAN connection；For the company by wireless terminal to WLAN of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals The type connect；And for the WLAN connection shapes for wireless terminal of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Condition.

Similarly, Figure 12 be a diagram that such as in the node of cellular network implement (such as, in LTE eNB) according to upper The process flow diagram flow chart of the exemplary method of the technology of face description.As shown at frame 1220, this method includes：From WLAN (WLAN) node in receives report, and this report indicates whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to WLAN.Such as in frame Shown at 1230, this method further comprises：In response to receiving report, and in one or more wireless terminals extremely A few wireless terminal takes action.

In some embodiments or example of illustrated process flow, the reception of report is in response to clearly request.Cause This, as shown at frame 1210, illustrated process can include transmission of the request to report to WLAN node.Frame 1210 It is illustrated to indicate that it need not be appeared in each embodiment of the example of illustrated process flow using dotted outline.

In certain embodiments, action is taken to include on one or more wireless terminals：Discharge the section in cellular network The connection between at least one wireless terminal in point and one or more wireless terminals.In certain embodiments, report includes For the connection state with WLAN of at least one wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals, and the release connected with Connection state is condition.

In certain embodiments, report further indicates that one or more wireless terminals not yet successful attempt to be connected to The node that node in WLAN, and cellular node suppresses into WLAN unloads the trial of one or more mobile terminals.

In certain embodiments, report include be directed to one or more wireless terminals in it is each wireless terminal, be used for The cellular network node identifier of cellular network node associated by wireless terminal.On in one or more wireless terminals extremely A few wireless terminal takes action to include in these embodiments：Only in one or more wireless terminals and honeybee Those associated wireless terminals of the node of nest network take action.

Figure 13 is and another process flow diagram flow chart this time to illustrate the exemplary method such as performed by wireless terminal, wherein without Line terminal is adapted to be to be operated in both WLAN and cellular network.As shown at frame 1310, this method includes：Connection To the node in WLAN (WLAN), wherein " connection " can include any implication in implication discussed above.Such as exist Shown at frame 1320, this method further comprises：Sent to WLAN for the cellular network node associated by wireless terminal or For the cellular network associated by wireless terminal or the identifier for both.

In certain embodiments, this method further comprises：The identifier for wireless terminal is sent to WLAN.At some In embodiment, this method includes：Cellular network node associated by wireless terminal is sent to be used in a wlan by wireless terminal Mark.This shows that it is illustrated to indicate that it need not appear in illustrated process using dotted outline at frame 1330 In each embodiment of the example of flow.

As mentioned above, embodiments of the invention include being configured as performing technique described herein (including Figure 10-figure 13 process flow diagram flow chart) in one or more technologies device.These devices include wireless terminal device, cellular network section Point and WLAN node, it can have in certain embodiments configures similar match somebody with somebody with those illustrated in Fig. 7-Fig. 9 Put, each illustrate the equipment including process circuit and memory circuitry in Fig. 7-Fig. 9, process circuit includes one or more Treatment element, memory circuitry stores for being performed by process circuit to perform the one or more in method disclosed herein The computer program instructions of method.

It is readily apparent that, these and similar devices are construed as including one or more functions module or unit, wherein often Individual functional module is configured as the operation illustrated in such as execution Figure 10-Figure 13 process flow diagram flow chart or one in similar operations Individual or multiple operations.For example, any one or more functional modules in these functional modules can be utilized and institute in Fig. 7-Fig. 9 The similar one or more process circuits of those process circuits of diagram are implemented.

Therefore Figure 14, which depicts, includes the WLAN node 1400 of some such functional modules.More particularly, WLAN node 1400 include：Link block 1420, for determining whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to WLAN；And report mould Block 1430, report is sent for the node into wide area cellular networks, and whether this report indicates one or more wireless terminals It is connected to WLAN.As mentioned above, sending for report can be in response to detecting the generation of trigger event.Therefore, Tu14Zhong The WLAN node 1400 shown further comprises detection trigger module 1410, and it is used for the generation for detecting trigger event.It will be understood that, Some changes of the implementation being used in WLAN node of technology described above are equally applicable to the WLAN shown in Figure 14 Node 1400.

Similarly, Figure 15 illustrates the cellular network node 1500 including some functional modules, and some functional modules include Receiving module 1520, it is used to receive report from the node in WLAN, and whether this report indicates one or more wireless terminals Through being connected to WLAN.Cellular network node 1500 further comprises uninstall action module 1530, and it is used in response to receiving report Accuse and take action at least one wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals.This move can include retouching above Any one or more actions in the action stated, such as initiate wireless terminal to WLAN unloading or suppress so to do.As above What face was mentioned, the reception of report can be in response to clearly request.Therefore cellular network node 1500 includes sending module 1510, It is used to send the request to report to WLAN node.Again, technology described above be used in cellular network node The function that is shown suitable for Figure 15 of some changes of implementation represent.

Figure 16 is that the function of wireless terminal 1600 is represented, wireless terminal 1600 includes：Link block 1610, for being connected to Node in WLAN；And sending module 1620, for WLAN send for the cellular network node associated by wireless terminal, Or for the cellular network associated by wireless terminal or the identifier for both.Again, technology described above The function that some changes for the implementation in wireless terminal are shown suitable for Figure 16 is represented.

It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various modifications can be made without departing from this hair to embodiment described above Bright scope.For example, although describe this using the example with reference to the communication system for according with the LTE standard that 3GPP is specified The embodiment of invention, it should be noted that the solution proposed can be applied to other networks with equally well.Above Therefore the specific embodiment of description should be considered as exemplary, rather than limitation the scope of the present invention.Certainly, because can not The every kind of of component or technology can be described it is contemplated that combination, so it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention can be according to Other modes in addition to those specifically set forth herein mode are implemented, without departing from the necessary characteristic of the present invention.At present Embodiment therefore will be considered as illustrative rather than binding in all respects.

In this description of the various embodiments of inventive concepts, it will be appreciated that term as used herein is only used for retouching State the purpose of specific embodiment and be not intended to be limitation to inventive concepts.Unless otherwise defined, it is used herein All terms (including technology and scientific terminology) have with as the those of ordinary skill in the field belonging to inventive concepts The identical meanings being generally understood that.It will be further understood that, term (those terms such as defined in common dictionary) should be solved It is interpreted as with the implication consistent with their implications in this specification and the context of association area, and will not be resonable Wanting or it is excessively formal in the sense that explained, unless be clearly so defined herein.

When element is referred to as " being connected to ", " being coupled to ", " in response to ", (or their variant) another element, it can To be directly connected to, be coupled to or there may be in response to another element, or intervening element.In contradistinction to, when element is referred to as When " being directly connected to ", " being directly coupled to ", " corresponding directly to ", (or their variant) another element, member is not intervened Part is present.Similar numeral refers to similar element from beginning to end.Furthermore, as used herein " coupling ", " connection ", " sound Should " or their variant can include wireless coupling, connection or respond.As it is used herein, singulative " one ", " one Kind " and "the" are intended to also include plural form, unless context is otherwise explicitly indicated that.In order to succinct and/or clear, Known function or construction may be described in detail.Term "and/or" includes one in associated listed project Or any and all combination of multiple projects.

It will be understood that, although term first, second, third, etc. can be used to describe various element/operations herein, but It is that these element/operations should not be limited by these terms.These terms be used only for distinguish an element/operation with it is another Element/operation.Therefore, the first element/operation in some embodiments can be referred to as the second element/behaviour in other embodiments Make, without departing from the teaching of inventive concepts.Identical reference number or identical reference sign symbol are represented through specification Same or similar element.

As it is used herein, term " comprising ", " including ", " including ", " including ", "comprising", " including ", " having ", " possessing ", " carrying " or their variant are open, and including one or more stated features, whole Number, element, step, component or function, but be not excluded for other one or more features, integer, element, step, component, function, Or the presence or addition of their group.Furthermore, as it is used herein, coming from the conventional abbreviation of latin phrase " as example " " for example " generic instance of the project referred to before or multiple examples can be used to introduce or specified, and is not intended to be to this The limitation of the project of kind.Coming from the conventional abbreviation " i.e. " of latin phrase " namely " can be used to specify from more generally recording Specific project.

Herein by reference to computer-implemented method, device (system and/or equipment) and/or computer program product Block diagram and/or flow chart illustration describe example embodiment.It will be understood by, the frame and frame of block diagram and/or flow chart illustration The combination of figure and/or the frame in flow chart illustration can be as the computer program instructions performed by one or more computer circuits To implement.These computer program instructions can be provided to all-purpose computer circuit, special-purpose computer circuit, and/or other The processor circuit of programmable data processing circuit is caused via computer and/or other programmable datas with producing machine The value stored in the instruction map of the computing device of processing unit and controlling transistor, memory location and this electricity Function/the action specified in frame or multiple frames of other nextport hardware component NextPorts to implement block diagram and/or flow chart in the system of road, and Thus create for implement block diagram and/or flow chart (multiple) frame in the part (feature) of function/action specified and/or Structure.

These computer program instructions can also be stored in tangible computer computer-readable recording medium, and it can guide computer Or other programmable data processing units are operated in a specific way, and the instruction stored in computer-readable medium is produced Product, the product includes the instruction for the function/action specified in the frame or multiple frames of implementation block diagram and/or flow chart.Therefore, originally The embodiment of inventive concepts can be embodied in hardware and/or be run on processor (such as digital signal processor) Software (including firmware, resident software, microcode etc.) in, they can collectively referred to as " circuit system ", " module " or its variant.

It shall also be noted that in some replacement embodiments, the function/action mentioned in frame can not be by carrying in flow chart The order arrived occurs.For example, two frames shown in succession substantially can essentially be concomitantly performed, or frame sometimes can be by Opposite is sequentially executed, and this depends on involved function/action.In addition, the function of the given frame of flow chart and/or block diagram Multiple frames can be separated into, and/or the function of two or more frames of flow chart and/or block diagram can be whole at least in part Close.Finally, other frames can be added/be inserted between illustrated frame, and/or can omit frame/operation without departing from The scope of inventive concepts.In addition, although some accompanying drawings in accompanying drawing include the arrow on communication path to show the master of communication Direction is wanted, it will be understood that, communication can occur on the opposite direction of the arrow with being described.

Many, which is changed and modifications, to be made to embodiment, and does not deviate by the principle of inventive concepts substantially.Institute There is such change and modifications to be intended to be included in herein in the range of inventive concepts.Therefore, it is disclosed above Theme is considered as illustrative rather than binding, and the appended example of embodiment is intended to covering and fallen in inventive concepts Spirit and scope in it is all it is this modification, enhancing and other embodiment.Therefore, it is lawful to the full extent, this The scope of inventive concepts will permit explaining determining by the most wide of the disclosure, and should not by foregoing detailed description about Beam or limitation.

Claims (40)

1. a kind of method in WLAN WLAN node, methods described includes：

It is determined that whether (1120) one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to the WLAN；And

Node into wide area cellular networks sends (1140) report, and whether the report indicates one or more wireless terminals It is connected to the WLAN.

2. according to the method described in claim 1, wherein：

Include it is determined that whether (1120) one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to the WLAN：Determine one or more wireless Terminal has been coupled to the WLAN；And

Node into wide area cellular networks, which sends (1140) described report, to be included：Send and indicated one or more wireless terminals It is connected to the report of the WLAN.

3. method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprises：Detect that (1110) trigger event has occurred and that, wherein institute The transmission report is stated to be performed in response to the trigger event.

4. method according to claim 3, wherein the trigger event include it is following in one or more：

The completion of the connection procedure carried out by a wireless terminal or by the wireless terminal of predetermined number；

The request of the node in the cellular network；And

Periodic reporting interval expires.

5. the method according to any one of claim 1-4, wherein the report indicates one or more wireless terminals still Not successfully attempt to connect to the WLAN.

6. the method according to any one of claim 1-5, further comprises：Based on one or more specific to terminal Condition determines whether each wireless terminal in (1130) one or more wireless terminals is included in the report.

7. method according to claim 6, wherein one or more of conditions specific to terminal include it is following in one Item is multinomial：

Whether the wireless terminal supports the connection with the cellular network；

The connection state with the cellular network for the wireless terminal；

Whether the wireless terminal, which has requested that, is included in the report；

The network identity corresponding with the cellular network that the wireless terminal is connected to；And

The reason for connection with the WLAN of the wireless terminal.

8. the method according to any one of claim 1-7, wherein the report includes following middle any one or more：

Terminal iidentification for each wireless terminal in one or more of wireless terminal wireless terminal；

Identifier for the WLAN and/or WLAN node；

For the cellular network being connected to the wireless terminal of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Corresponding network identity；

It is used for the cellular network associated by the wireless terminal for each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals The cellular network node identifier of node；

For the connection by the wireless terminal to the WLAN of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Time；

For the connection by the wireless terminal to the WLAN of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Type；And

For the WLAN connection states for the wireless terminal of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals.

9. a kind of method in the node of wide area cellular networks, methods described includes：

(1220) report is received from the node in WLAN WLAN, whether the report indicates one or more wireless terminals Have been coupled to the WLAN；And

In response to receiving the report, take dynamic at least one wireless terminal in one or more of wireless terminals Make (1230).

10. method according to claim 9, wherein receiving (1220) described report bag from the node in the WLAN Include：Receive the report for indicating that one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to the WLAN.

11. the method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein taking action (1230) to include：Discharge in the cellular network The node and one or more of wireless terminals at least one wireless terminal between connection.

12. method according to claim 11, wherein the report includes being directed in one or more of wireless terminals At least one wireless terminal the connection state with the WLAN, and wherein it is described release it is described connection with the company Situation is connect for condition.

13. the method according to any one of claim 9-12, wherein the report indicates one or more wireless terminals Not yet successful attempt to be connected to the WLAN, and wherein methods described further comprises：Suppress the institute into the WLAN State the trial that node unloads one or more of mobile terminals.

14. the method according to any one of claim 9-13, further comprises：Node hair into the WLAN The request of (1210) to the report is sent, wherein described receive (1220) described report in response to the request.

15. the method according to any one of claim 9-14, wherein the report is included for one or more wireless The cellular network node mark for being used for the cellular network node associated by the wireless terminal of each wireless terminal in terminal Symbol, and wherein take action to include at least one wireless terminal in one or more of wireless terminals：Only for Those wireless terminals associated with the node of the cellular network in one or more of wireless terminals take dynamic Make.

16. a kind of method in wireless terminal, methods described includes：

(1310) are connected to the node in WLAN WLAN；And

(1320) are sent for the cellular network node associated by the wireless terminal or for the wireless end to the WLAN The associated cellular network in end or the identifier for both.

17. method according to claim 16, further comprises：The mark for the wireless terminal is sent to the WLAN Know symbol.

18. the method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprises：To the cellular network associated by the wireless terminal Node sends the mark that (1330) are used by the wireless terminal in the WLAN.

19. a kind of device (14) for being used in WLAN WLAN, wherein described device (14) is adapted to be：

Determine whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to the WLAN；And

Node into wide area cellular networks sends report, and the report indicates whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to The WLAN.

20. device (14) according to claim 19, wherein described device (14) are adapted to be the one or more nothings of determination Line terminal has been coupled to the WLAN, and the node transmission instruction into the wide area network Cellular Networks is one or more Wireless terminal has been coupled to the report of the WLAN.

Touched 21. the device (14) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein described device (14) are further adapted to detection Hair event has occurred and that, and sends the report in response to the trigger event.

22. device (14) according to claim 21, wherein the trigger event include it is following in one or more：

The completion of the connection procedure carried out by a wireless terminal or by the wireless terminal of predetermined number；

The request of the node in the cellular network；And

Periodic reporting interval expires.

23. the device (14) according to any one of claim 19-22, wherein the report instruction is one or more wireless Terminal not yet successful attempts to be connected to the WLAN.

24. the device (14) according to any one of claim 19-23, wherein described device (14) are further adapted For：Determine whether is each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals based on one or more conditions specific to terminal It is included in the report.

25. device (14) according to claim 24, wherein under one or more of conditions specific to terminal include One or more in row：

Whether the wireless terminal supports the connection with the cellular network；

The connection state with the cellular network for the wireless terminal；

Whether the wireless terminal, which has requested that, is included in the report；

The network identity corresponding with the cellular network that the wireless terminal is connected to；And

The reason for connection with the WLAN of the wireless terminal.

26. the device (14) according to any one of claim 19-25, wherein the report includes following middle any one Or it is multinomial：

Terminal iidentification for each wireless terminal in one or more of wireless terminal wireless terminal；

Identifier for the WLAN and/or WLAN node；

For the cellular network being connected to the wireless terminal of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Corresponding network identity；

It is used for the cellular network associated by the wireless terminal for each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals The cellular network node identifier of node；

For the connection by the wireless terminal to the WLAN of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Time；

For the connection by the wireless terminal to the WLAN of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Type；And

For the WLAN connection states for the wireless terminal of each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals.

27. a kind of device (14) for being used in WLAN WLAN, described device (14) includes process circuit system (60,66), the process circuit system (60,66) is configured as：

Determine whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to the WLAN；And

Node into wide area cellular networks sends report, and the report indicates whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to The WLAN.

28. a kind of device (1400) for being used in WLAN WLAN, described device (1400) includes：

Link block, for determining whether one or more wireless terminals have been coupled to the WLAN；And

Sending module, report is sent for the node into wide area cellular networks, and the report indicates one or more wireless terminals Whether the WLAN is had been coupled to.

29. a kind of cellular network node device (10) for using in cellular networks, wherein described device (10) is adapted For：

Report is received from the node in WLAN WLAN, the report indicates whether one or more wireless terminals have connected It is connected to the WLAN；And

In response to receiving the report, take dynamic at least one wireless terminal in one or more of wireless terminals Make.

30. cellular network node device (10) according to claim 29, wherein described device (10) are adapted to be, from institute State the node in WLAN and receive the one or more reports for wirelessly having been coupled to the WLAN of instruction.

31. cellular network node device (10) according to claim 29, wherein the action includes：Discharge the honeycomb The connection between at least one described wireless terminal in the node and one or more of wireless terminals in network.

32. cellular network node device (10) according to claim 31, wherein the report is included for one Or the connection state with the WLAN of at least one wireless terminal in multiple wireless terminals, and wherein described release The connection is using the connection state as condition.

33. the cellular network node device (10) according to any one of claim 29-32, wherein the action includes： In response to receiving the report for indicating that one or more wireless terminals not yet successful attempt to be connected to the WLAN, suppress to institute State the trial that the node in WLAN unloads one or more of mobile terminals.

34. the cellular network node device (10) according to any one of claim 29-33, wherein described device (10) enter The node that one step is adapted to be into the WLAN sends the request to the report, wherein described receive described in (1220) Report is in response to the request.

35. the cellular network node device (10) according to any one of claim 29-34, wherein the report includes pin Cellular network node associated by the wireless terminal is used for each wireless terminal in one or more wireless terminals Cellular network node identifier, and the institute wherein at least one wireless terminal in one or more of wireless terminals Stating action includes：Only for that associated with the node of the cellular network in one or more of wireless terminals A little wireless terminals take action.

36. a kind of cellular network node device (10) for using in cellular networks, described device (40) includes processing electricity Road system (40,46), the process circuit system (40,46) is configured as：

Report is received from the node in WLAN WLAN, the report indicates whether one or more wireless terminals have connected It is connected to the WLAN；And

In response to receiving the report, take dynamic at least one wireless terminal in one or more of wireless terminals Make.

37. a kind of cellular network node device (1500) for using in cellular networks, described device includes：

Receiving module (1520), for receiving report from the node in WLAN WLAN, the report indicates one or many Whether individual wireless terminal has been coupled to the WLAN；And

Uninstall action module (1530), in response to receive it is described report and in one or more of wireless terminals At least one wireless terminal take action.

38. a kind of wireless terminal device for being adapted to operate in WLAN WLAN and in cellular networks (12), wherein the wireless terminal device (12) is adapted to be：

It is connected to the node in WLAN；And

Send for the cellular network node associated by the wireless terminal or closed for the wireless terminal to the WLAN The cellular network of connection or the identifier for both.

39. a kind of wireless terminal device for being adapted to operate in WLAN WLAN and in cellular networks (12), the wireless terminal device (12) includes process circuit system (30,36), and the process circuit system (30,36) is fitted With for：

It is connected to the node in WLAN；And

Send for the cellular network node associated by the wireless terminal or closed for the wireless terminal to the WLAN The cellular network of connection or the identifier for both.

40. a kind of wireless terminal device for being adapted to operate in WLAN WLAN and in cellular networks (1600), the wireless terminal device (1600) includes：

Link block (1610), for the node being connected in WLAN；And

Sending module (1620), for being sent to the WLAN for the cellular network node associated by the wireless terminal or For the cellular network associated by the wireless terminal or the identifier for both.